Thirteen Falls Tentsite

Star4.43
17 reviews
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Quick Facts

2,260 ft

Price

$10 - $15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

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Thirteen Falls Tentsite
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee is $15 per person per night and is collected year-round. Self-service cash boxes are utilized when the seasonal caretaker is absent. Some reviews...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 17 reviews

14 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryhiking

"User reviews for Thirteen Falls Tentsite highlight its rugged wilderness appeal, scenic water features, and opportunities for unplugging from daily life. However, complaints include maintenance issues such as damaged bear boxes, an absent caretaker, and uneven tent pads."

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Campground Map

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Thirteen Falls Tentsite

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Driving directionsLocated near the junction of the Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails in the Pemigewasset Wilderness.
Hiking access only; no direct road access. Requires a backcountry hike.
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Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Thirteen Falls Tentsite

The mountain weather here dances to its own rhythm throughout the year, with conditions that can shift from sun-drenched mornings to misty afternoons in the span of hours. This elevated backcountry location experiences the full drama of New England's seasons - from snow-laden winters that transform the landscape into a crystalline wonderland to verdant summers alive with the sound of rushing water. Visitors should come prepared for nature's mood swings, as the wilderness elevation creates its own microclimate that can surprise even seasoned hikers.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer reviews highlight accessible hiking and praised swimming hole; popular season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Early fall noted as popular; White Mountains foliage likely enhances scenery and hiking.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring brings higher water flows and scenic cascades but may be wet/muddy; mixed usability.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but extreme cold/snow limit usability and no winter facilities described.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Year-round
  • Current Alerts: Bear boxes have been destroyed by bears, and caretakers may be absent for days.

About Thirteen Falls Tentsite

Deep in the heart of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, where three backcountry trails converge like ancient forest highways, Thirteen Falls Tentsite awaits the adventurous soul. This remote sanctuary offers nine thoughtfully spaced tent pads nestled among towering trees, each providing a private slice of wilderness solitude. Modern backcountry amenities include a secure bear box for food storage, a well-maintained composting privy, and a dedicated dishwashing station that helps preserve the pristine environment. During peak season, a knowledgeable caretaker tends to the site, offering local wisdom and ensuring this wilderness gem remains unspoiled for future generations.
Thirteen Falls Tentsite is specifically designed for tent camping in a backcountry wilderness setting.
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Amenities available

Food storage lockers
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The primary activity at Thirteen Falls Tentsite is hiking. The site is located near the junction of Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails, offering opportunities for day hikes and backcountry exploration. Several users highlighted nearby scenic water features, including cascades and swimming holes.
HikingHiking opportunities include trails such as Franconia Brook Trail and Lincoln Brook Trail. Franconia Brook Trail is wide and follows an old rail bed, while Lincoln Brook Trail is scenic and more natural with single-track sections. The short hike to Franconia Falls offers excellent views and swimming.
SwimmingA swimming hole is available near the tentsite, and users have praised it as a highlight of the camping experience.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews indicate bear activity; bear boxes reported as destroyed in some instances.
Active AlertsBear boxes have been destroyed by bears, and caretakers may be absent for days.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Food Storage RequiredBear boxes provided; however, user reviews indicate they may be unreliable due to bear damage.

Weather at Thirteen Falls Tentsite

Reviews

4.4
17 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Thirteen Falls Tentsite is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Thirteen Falls Tentsite highlight its rugged wilderness appeal, scenic water features, and opportunities for unplugging from daily life. However, complaints include maintenance issues such as damaged bear boxes, an absent caretaker, and uneven tent pads.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include beautiful scenery, a swimming hole, backcountry hiking trails, and the site's ability to offer a retreat from daily life. One reviewer described the site as 'one of the most...
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Based on 17 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include damaged bear boxes, uneven tent pads, and occasional caretaker absenteeism. One review labeled the site as 'a hot mess' due to bear activity and lack of caretaker presence.
Based on 17 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include avoiding the Owls Head Trail for access, using bug spray, and checking for site maintenance issues upon arrival. One user recommended hiking out and back via Lincoln Brook Trail for more...
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Based on 17 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that summer and early fall are popular seasons due to accessible hiking and swimming. Winter conditions may limit usability, as extreme cold and snow are frequent in this location.
Based on 17 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Simply amazing. The tentsite is very rustic and it's not easy to get to but the scenery is unbelievable.' - Kris Ahlstrom 2. 'Great tent site, privy, cook area, bear boxes.' - Jeremy 3. 'The...
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Based on 17 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews mention uneven tent pads and close spacing between sites. One reviewer stated they had to camp off to the side due to lack of available pads.
Based on 17 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is not reviewed or mentioned in user accounts.
Based on 17 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically detail experiences with pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 17 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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